Apple Crisp Bars are a delicious treat that brings together the best of a classic apple crisp in an easy-to-hold bar form. They have a soft, cinnamon-spiced apple filling layered between buttery, crumbly oat crusts. The top is golden and crunchy, giving you that perfect mix of textures in every bite.
I love making these bars because they are so simple to whip up and always disappear fast at gatherings. One tip I always follow is to use tart apples like Granny Smith—they give the filling a nice tang that balances the sweet crumble topping. Plus, while they bake, the whole kitchen fills with a warm, cozy apple and cinnamon aroma that I can’t get enough of.
These bars are perfect for a snack on the go, a casual dessert after dinner, or even packed in a lunchbox. I often serve them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a bit of whipped cream to make them extra special. Honestly, they remind me of cozy fall days and family get-togethers, and I always feel happy when I have a batch ready to share.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Apples: Tart apples like Granny Smith work best here because they hold their shape and add a nice tang. You can use Fuji or Honeycrisp if you want something sweeter, but watch for a softer texture.
Rolled Oats: These add great texture to the crumb topping and crust. If you only have quick oats, they’ll work but expect a slightly different texture—less chewy, more crumbly.
Butter: Cold, unsalted butter is key for that crumbly texture in the crust and topping. If dairy-free, substitute with vegan butter sticks for similar results.
Cream Cheese: This adds a luscious layer between the apples and crumble. For lactose intolerance, use a dairy-free cream cheese or skip this layer for a more classic apple crisp bar.
How Do You Get a Crumbly, Crunchy Topping and Crust?
The crumbly crust and topping make these bars special. Here’s how I do it:
- Start with cold butter. Cube it and mix it into the dry ingredients quickly using a pastry cutter or your fingertips. You want pea-sized bits, not melted butter.
- Reserve some of the crumb mixture for the topping and press the rest firmly to form the base layer. Don’t press this part too hard though, or it won’t stay crumbly.
- After layering the filling and cream cheese, sprinkle the reserved crumb topping gently and evenly without pressing it down.
- Bake until golden. The heat melts the butter, making the layers stick while keeping that perfect crisp texture on top.
Equipment You’ll Need
- 9×9-inch baking pan – I like this size because it gives you thick, chewy bars that are easy to cut.
- Parchment paper – makes removing the bars simple and keeps them from sticking.
- Mixing bowls – for tossing apples and mixing ingredients; a good set keeps things organized.
- Pastry cutter or forks – helps blend cold butter into flour and oats for that perfect crumble.
- Measuring cups and spoons – essential for accuracy, especially with spices and sugar.
- Electric hand or stand mixer (optional) – makes blending the cream cheese layer smooth and quick.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Use different apples like Fuji or Honeycrisp for sweeter or softer textures, or add lemon zest to the apple mixture for extra zing.
- Add chopped nuts—walnuts or pecans work well and give an extra crunch and richness.
- Sprinkle dried cranberries or raisins over the apples for a touch of tartness and sweetness.
- Mix spices like ginger or allspice into the apple filling for a warming twist on the classic cinnamon and nutmeg.
Apple Crisp Bars
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Crust and Topping:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup rolled oats
- 1 cup light brown sugar, packed
- ½ tsp baking powder
- ¼ tsp salt
- ½ cup unsalted butter, cold and cut into cubes
For The Apple Filling:
- 2 large apples (preferably Granny Smith or another tart variety), peeled, cored, and diced
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- ¼ tsp ground nutmeg
- 1 tbsp cornstarch
For The Cream Cheese Layer:
- ½ cup cream cheese, softened
- 2 tbsp powdered sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Optional Topping:
- Caramel sauce for drizzling
Time You’ll Need:
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and about 45-50 minutes to bake. Then, allow at least 30 minutes for the bars to cool completely before cutting and serving.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare Your Baking Pan and Crust:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×9-inch baking pan with parchment paper, making sure to leave some overhang on the sides to easily lift the bars out later. In a large bowl, combine the flour, rolled oats, brown sugar, baking powder, and salt. Add the cold butter cubes and use a pastry cutter or your fingers to work the butter in until the mixture looks crumbly with pea-sized pieces.
2. Make the Crust and Reserve Topping:
Save about 1 ½ cups of the crumb mixture for the topping. Press the remaining crumb mixture firmly and evenly into the bottom of your prepared pan to form the crust.
3. Prepare the Apple Filling:
In a medium bowl, toss the diced apples with lemon juice, granulated sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cornstarch until everything is well coated. Spread the apple mixture evenly over the crust.
4. Add the Cream Cheese Layer:
In a small bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with powdered sugar and vanilla extract until smooth. Dollop spoonfuls of the cream cheese mixture over the apples, then gently spread it out into an even layer.
5. Add the Topping and Bake:
Sprinkle the reserved crumb topping evenly over the cream cheese layer. Bake your bars in the oven for 45 to 50 minutes, or until the top turns golden brown and the apple filling is bubbling.
6. Cool and Serve:
Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack. Once cooled, lift the bars out using the parchment paper and cut into squares. If you like, drizzle caramel sauce over the top before serving for an extra special touch.
Can I Use Frozen Apples for These Bars?
Yes, you can! Just make sure to thaw and drain the frozen apples well before using to avoid excess moisture that could make the bars soggy.
Can I Substitute the Cream Cheese Layer?
Absolutely! If you prefer, you can skip the cream cheese layer for a more traditional apple crisp bar or use a dairy-free cream cheese alternative for a vegan version.
How Should I Store Apple Crisp Bars?
Store leftover bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or refrigerate for up to 5 days. They also freeze well — wrap tightly and freeze for up to 3 months.
Can I Make These Bars Ahead of Time?
Yes! Bake them a day ahead and store in the fridge. Bring them to room temperature before serving, or warm gently in the oven for that fresh-baked taste.
